Stonewall announced as main sponsor of UK Black Pride 2012

Stonewall is delighted to announce that it is the main sponsor of UK Black Pride 2012, the biggest celebration of African, Asian, Caribbean and Middle Eastern LGBT people in Europe.

Laura Doughty, Stonewall Deputy Chief Executive, said: 'Stonewall is delighted to once again support UK Black Pride as its main sponsor. Research we will be publishing at UK Black Pride shows that BME people who are gay all too often face increased difficulties when accessing Britain's public services. This country is rightly seen worldwide as a beacon for equality, which is why events like UK Black Pride - which celebrate diversity and showcase role models for young people - continue to be so important.'

Phyllis Opoku-Gyimah, UK Black Pride Director, said: 'We're thrilled that Stonewall is continuing its amazing support for our community-led event. The technical and financial help Stonewall has gifted us will to ensure that we put on a strong event to focus on the specific needs of African, Asian, Caribbean and Arab LGBT people as well as to celebrate our many achievements. UK Black Pride is an inclusive event for all people. I encourage everyone to join this Pride celebration!"

The seventh UK Black Pride festival will take place on Saturday 18 August at the Ministry of Sound, London. The event's theme is: 'Together we are strong!' and it is set to repeat the success of previous years where headline acts have included Jessie J, Ms Dynamite and Beverley Knight. Alongside the main stage and dance areas, there will be four licensed bars, a cocktail bar, VIP area, world food, education and welfare workshops, community stalls, prizes and much more.